Avalanche release system with avalanche release devices, installation of an avalanche release device and method for operating such devices

Description

[0001] Avalanche release system with avalanche release devices, assembly of an avalanche release device and the method for operating such devices

[0002] The invention relates to an avalanche triggering system comprising one or more avalanche triggering devices and their mounting on a slope and the method for actuating such devices.

[0003] Avalanche release devices are well known and serve to prevent unwanted avalanche release by triggering them before a danger to people and objects can arise.

[0004] Avalanches are usually triggered by explosives or other types of pressure waves. These act locally on the snowpack. With stationary avalanche release devices, the impact on the snowpack is often concentrated in the same location. This increasingly compacts the snowpack. As a result, the snowpack can be denser locally around the release device than in the surrounding area, preventing an avalanche from being triggered, even though there is a high risk of avalanches. This is extremely dangerous because an attempted avalanche release that doesn't result in an avalanche might lead people to misjudge the situation and consider it safe, even though a high avalanche danger exists.

[0005] From WO 2009 / 049 345 A1, such an avalanche release device is known, which has two actuable plates for releasing a mass of snow. A pivot axis is arranged between the two plates on the uphill side, with a device for triggering a sudden downward movement of the pivoted lifting plate. This ensures, firstly, that the upward pivoting largely prevents snow from penetrating beneath the lifting plate, and secondly, that when the lifting plate suddenly flips downwards, a corresponding impact or shock impulse is transferred to the snow layer, which then triggers the avalanche. Furthermore, the upward pivoting of the downhill end of the lifting plate creates a fracture point for the avalanche. Because the impulse is then transferred to this fracture point after the lifting plate's sudden downward fall, the avalanche release is highly likely to occur.Furthermore, ropes can be attached at their ends to the lifting plate on one side and to the ground via anchors on the other. The length of the ropes is dimensioned such that they are taut when the lifting plate is raised, but lie loosely on the ground when the lifting plate is lowered. The purpose of the ropes is to cut into the snow layer over a wide lateral area of ​​approximately 20-25 m of the device according to the invention, thereby causing the sudden drop of the lifting plate 53 over a broad area to break away the snow masses and trigger an artificial avalanche.

[0006] AT 508046 A1 is the Austrian patent application belonging to WO 2009 / 049 345 A1, which, in addition to the known device for triggering avalanches, discloses a power supply with a rechargeable energy storage device. The energy storage device is powered by a fuel cell.

[0007] Furthermore, AT 13446 U1 discloses a system for triggering avalanches with a plate similar to that in WO 2009 / 049 345 A1, which is lifted by an inflatable lifting cushion. Supports are arranged on both sides of the lifting cushion to hold the plate in the lifted position, and the base support points of the plate are abruptly retracted by a cable system.

[0008] WO 2012 / 079 102 A1 also discloses an avalanche release device in which a lifting cushion is inflated by means of a pressurized gas via mechanical or pneumatic release elements. Furthermore, this device includes remote control, a heated supply line for the pressurized gas, and a power supply using high-performance batteries, wind generators, solar panels, or fuel cells.

[0009] The AT 514 310 A1 shows an avalanche triggering system in which foldable shock shields and cable pulleys are used as an energy transfer method.

[0010] DE 100 20 916 A1 describes a general avalanche triggering system, in which individual elements serve as a saw device or snow pusher; the energy supply is provided via solar collectors, batteries or also electric or diesel motors.

[0011] RU 2004 / 131 334 A describes an avalanche release device using a gas generator; documents DE 128 75 97 B and FR 2 727 144 A1 show avalanche release devices in which release devices inflated with a working gas are used.

[0012] German patent DE 10 2011 013666 A1 discloses a device for the controlled triggering of avalanches, wherein a lifting plate can be raised by means of lifting cushions. Two cantilever plates are provided laterally on the lifting plate, which can be pivoted up and down by means of a hydraulic cylinder.

[0013] DE 3406748 A1 shows an anchoring device for anchoring the supports of a snow bridge of an avalanche control structure.

[0014] Further devices in this technology field are known, among others, from documents EP 2 374 939 A2, EP 2 631 365 A2 and AT 357 194 B.

[0015] For example, AT 357194 B relates to a device for the artificial triggering of avalanches, with a table that can be pivoted about a horizontal axis. The table can be raised towards the valley by means of a hydraulic cylinder or an electric spindle drive. The object of the present invention is to improve a stationary avalanche triggering system in such a way that an avalanche can be triggered reliably and safely.

[0016] The problem is solved by the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the respective dependent claims.

[0017] The avalanche release system according to the invention comprises one or more avalanche release devices with a lifting device for vertically moving a snow cutting element to cut through a snowpack over a predetermined length, and a control unit for actuating the lifting device to raise or lower the snow cutting element, wherein the lifting device comprises a hydraulically or pneumatically actuated cylinder / piston unit. The avalanche release system includes an operating station that supplies the avalanche release devices with a pressurized working medium. The operating station has a pressure tank (12) for maintaining the working medium (19) under pressure. The working medium is supplied to the cylinder / piston unit to abruptly raise the snow cutting element.

[0018] A snow cutting element is a body with an elongated edge that can be lifted to cut through a snowpack along that edge. The body can be a flat plate or a one-dimensional, elongated object such as a rope, chain, or pole.

[0019] Such a lifting device can raise large loads very quickly, even if the snow cutting element is a plate covered with a large amount of snow. A rapid, sudden upward movement can create a crack in the snowpack, leading to an avalanche.

[0020] The snow cutting element can be designed as a pivotally mounted lifting plate of the lifting device, allowing it to be raised and lowered from a starting position to a final position using one edge. When the lifting plate is raised, a continuous layer of snow is cut at its edges. The portion of the snow layer located on the lifting plate is then lifted along with the plate.

[0021] The lifting device can be connected to one or two cables, in particular two steel cables, which are arranged to the right and / or left of the lifting device and are, in particular, under spring tension. When the lifting device is raised, the cables are lifted along with it and cut through the snowpack. The cables thus serve as additional snow-cutting elements alongside the lifting plate.

[0022] Raising the lifting device creates an artificial snowfall. To ensure activation even with shallow snow, this design has a low maximum height. To prevent malfunction of the lifting plate, it is attached to a base with a hinge joint. When mounted, the hinge points uphill to prevent snow from entering the base when the plate is raised. The spring-loaded cables, or steel cables, are located near the ground in their initial position and, when the plate is raised, trigger a release edge on the side of the lifting device.

[0023] Preferably, the cylinder / piston unit is hydraulically actuated, because such a lifting unit can lift large loads with small, compact hydraulic units, which allows the entire lifting device to be designed very compactly.

[0024] An avalanche release system comprises the operating station, which provides a pressurized hydraulic or pneumatic working fluid. The operating station has a pressure tank in which the working fluid is kept under pressure so that it can be instantly transferred to the avalanche release device.

[0025] The operating station is preferably designed so that it can simultaneously operate several avalanche triggering devices with the working medium.

[0026] If the working medium is a hydraulic fluid, then the pressure tank is preferably designed with a gas cushion. This makes it possible to deliver a large volume of hydraulic fluid in a short time and thus, for example, to control several avalanche release devices simultaneously.

[0027] The pressure tank can be designed to be replaceable at the operating station and / or rechargeable externally.

[0028] The operating station preferably includes a pump to pressurize the pressure tank.

[0029] The pump can be driven electrically or with compressed gas, especially compressed air.

[0030] The operating station can function as an energy storage system, comprising a gas engine, a generator, and a gas pressure tank. The gas engine and generator are coupled in such a way that the gas engine can be powered by the pressurized gas supplied from the gas pressure tank, driving the generator to produce electricity. Alternatively, the generator can be powered by electricity as an electric motor to drive the gas engine as a pump, pressurizing the gas pressure tank. This allows electrical energy to be temporarily stored as gas pressure in the gas pressure tank, and the stored gas pressure can then be used to provide electrical energy. This is particularly advantageous in combination with a photovoltaic system, which provides low-power electrical energy over extended periods (e.g., several days) when the sun is shining, and this energy is then stored as gas pressure.The stored gas pressure can then be used to generate high-power electrical energy in a shorter period (a few hours), for example to operate the pump for charging the pressure tank for the working medium or to supply a heating device with electricity.

[0031] Alternatively, or in combination with the energy storage system described above, the operating station can also have a fuel cell that supplies the operating station with electricity.

[0032] With this avalanche triggering device, the avalanche can be triggered manually or automatically, and most importantly, repeatedly, depending on the snow depth and temperature.

[0033] A remote control can be used to trigger the alarm.

[0034] To ensure that the snow mass is released in a timely manner, an upper temperature limit of +5°C is set. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows: Figure 1: An arrangement of several avalanche release devices according to the invention on a slope; Figure 2: An avalanche release device with the lifting plate extended; Figure 3: Three avalanche release devices arranged side by side; Figure 4: An embodiment of the lifting plate of an avalanche release device according to the invention; Figure 5: An operating station anchored to the rock for operating one or more of the avalanche release devices in a front view; Figure 6: The operating station made of Figure 5 in a side view; Figure 7 a container of the operating station made of Figure 5 in a top view and a side view; Figure 8 the operating station made of Figure 5in a block diagram; Figure 9 a block diagram of an operating station and an avalanche release device according to a second embodiment; Figure 10 the avalanche release device with integrated hydraulic components according to the second embodiment; Figure 11 a block diagram with several avalanche release devices according to the second embodiment; Figure 12 the avalanche release device made of Figure 10 with the lifting plate retracted; in a side view from above; Figure 13 the avalanche release device made of Figure 10 with the lifting plate extended; in a side view from above; and Figure 14 the avalanche release device made of Figure 10 with the lifting plate extended; in a side view from below.

[0036] One embodiment of an avalanche release system 1 comprises four avalanche release devices 2 and an operating station 3.

[0037] Each avalanche release device 2 has a lifting plate 4 and a base 5 (Figures 2-4). In the present embodiment, the base 5 is plate-shaped with several slots 6. The base 5 is significantly narrower than the lifting plate 4. Through holes 7 are provided at the corners of the base 5 so that the base 5 can be fixed to a slope by means of ground anchors ( Fig. 4 ).

[0038] The base 5 and the lifting plate 4 are each connected to one another at one edge by a hinge joint 8. A cylinder / piston unit 9, which functions as a lifting device, is arranged between the base 5 and the lifting plate 4. By means of the cylinder / piston unit 9, the lifting plate 4 can be pivoted, raised, or lowered from the base 5 around the hinge joint 8. The lifting plate 4 and the base 5 can thus be unfolded and folded together again by means of the cylinder / piston unit 9, similar to the two halves of a shell.

[0039] In the present embodiment, the cylinder / piston unit 9 is hydraulically driven. A pneumatically driven cylinder / piston unit can also be provided within the scope of the invention. However, a hydraulically driven cylinder / piston unit is advantageous because, compared to a pneumatic cylinder / piston unit, it can be designed to be significantly more compact and can also generate a high torque much more quickly, thereby enabling a heavy lifting plate, together with a load placed on it, to be lifted very quickly and reliably.

[0040] In the present embodiment, the lifting plate 4 has a size of 4 m x 2 m (Figure 4). The size of the lifting plate 4 can be freely chosen and adapted to the conditions on site.

[0041] The cylinder / piston units 9 are each connected to the operating station 3 via two pressure lines 10, 11 ( Figure 8 ).

[0042] Operating station 3 has a pressure tank 12 with a gas cushion 13. The pressure tank is connected to a hydraulic pump 15 via a third pressure line 14.

[0043] The hydraulic pump 15 is coupled to an electric motor 16, which can drive the hydraulic pump.

[0044] The hydraulic pump 15 is connected via a fourth pressure line 17 to a reservoir 18 for a hydraulic working medium 19.

[0045] A pressure gauge 20 is arranged in the fourth pressure line 17 between the reservoir 18 and the hydraulic pump 15, which detects the pressure contained therein.

[0046] A branch line 21 leads from the third pressure line 14 to a hydraulic switching device 22. A fifth pressure line 23 leads from the hydraulic switching device 22 to the reservoir 18. The hydraulic switching device 22 connects the branch line 21, or the fifth pressure line 23, to the pressure lines 10 and 11 leading to the avalanche release device 2. The hydraulic switching device 22 has three states. In the first state, the connection between the branch line 21, or the fifth pressure line 23, and the pressure lines 10 and 11 is disconnected. In a lifting state, the branch line 21 is connected to the first pressure line 10, and the fifth pressure line 23 is connected to the second pressure line 11. In a lowering state, the branch line 21 is connected to the second pressure line 11, and the fifth pressure line 23 is connected to the first pressure line 10.

[0047] By adjusting the hydraulic switching device 22 to the corresponding positions, the lifting plate 4 of the avalanche release device 2 can be raised, lowered or held in the respective position, whereby during raising and lowering hydraulic working medium flows from the pressure tank 12 to the cylinder / piston unit 9 in order to either extend or retract the piston from the cylinder.

[0048] The gas cushion 13 in the pressure tank 12 serves to maintain the pressure in the pressure tank 12, even when a larger quantity of hydraulic working medium 19 is released from the pressure tank 12 to raise or lower the lifting plate 4.

[0049] Operating station 3 includes an energy storage unit 24, which comprises a gas engine 25, a generator 26, and a gas pressure tank 27. The gas engine 25 and the generator 26 are coupled in such a way that the gas engine 25 can be operated with the pressure provided by the gas pressure tank 27 and drives the generator 26 to produce electricity. Thus, the energy storage unit 24 can convert the gas pressure stored in the gas pressure tank 27 into electricity and supply electrical energy.

[0050] However, the generator 26 can also be operated as an electric motor to drive the gas engine 25 as a pump, in order to pump gas into the gas pressure tank 27 and pressurize it. This allows electrical energy to be stored as gas pressure in the gas pressure tank 27.

[0051] The energy storage device 24 thus serves on the one hand to store electrical energy in the gas pressure tank 27 as gas pressure and on the other hand to convert the gas pressure back into electrical energy.

[0052] Such an energy storage system 24 is particularly advantageous in combination with a photovoltaic system, which generates electricity from sunlight using one or more solar panels 28. This makes the operating station 3 independent of a power supply. The photovoltaic system typically has only a low electrical output, but can often provide this for a long period, such as several days. The electrical power provided by the photovoltaic system is used to pressurize the gas pressure tank 27.

[0053] To operate the electric motor 16 to drive the hydraulic pump 15, a high electrical power is required, but only for a short period of time, in order to pump hydraulic drive medium 19 from the reservoir 18 into the pressure tank 12 by means of the hydraulic pump 15 and to pressurize it.

[0054] Alternatively, the energy storage device 24 can also be designed as a fuel cell, which includes a tank for a fuel and wherein the fuel cell is designed to generate electrical energy.

[0055] Furthermore, the energy storage unit 24 can have an internal combustion engine instead of the gas engine, which can also be operated in reverse as a pump. This engine drives the generator 26. For example, diesel, gasoline, or a combustible gas, especially propane, can be used as fuel. The fuel is stored in a corresponding tank.

[0056] A battery or accumulator 29 can be used as an additional energy storage device. Both a photovoltaic system, an accumulator 29, and a fuel cell are fundamentally DC energy sources. The generator 26 supplies AC. The electric motor 16 is also operated with AC. The DC components and the AC components are coupled to each other by an inverter 30, which converts the DC to AC and vice versa.

[0057] Operating station 3 can include an optional heating device 31. Hydraulic oils are available that can be used as hydraulic drive media down to -30°C and even at colder temperatures. The other components of operating station 3 are not temperature-sensitive. Therefore, a heating device is generally not necessary. However, the heating device 31 may be useful under extreme conditions.

[0058] The operating station 3 has a controller 32 which uses electrical signals to control the energy storage device 24, the electric motor 16, or the heating device 31. In the present embodiment, the controller 32 is designed as a PLC controller and is freely programmable. The controller 32 is connected to a variety of sensors 33, such as a voltmeter for measuring the voltage at the accumulator 29, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature adjacent to the heating device 31, or the pressure sensor 20 described above. The controller 32 also serves to control the hydraulic switching device 22.

[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 32 can be connected to weather sensors 34 for recording, for example, wind speed, wind direction, air temperature and / or the amount of precipitation, which are arranged on a mast 35.

[0060] The operating station 3 further comprises a radio module 36 for establishing a bidirectional data connection. The radio module 36 is connected to an antenna 37. In the present embodiment, the radio module 36 is a GSM module. However, it can also be any other radio module that has sufficient range to communicate with the operating station 3 via a suitable transmitter / receiver for the purpose of maintaining and controlling it, and in particular for triggering avalanches, as explained in more detail below.

[0061] The in Figure 8The operating station 3 shown has a single hydraulic switching device 22. If the operating station 3 is to control several avalanche release devices 2, then it is advantageous to provide a separate hydraulic switching device 22 for each avalanche release device 2 to be controlled. The other components do not need to be provided multiple times. It is sufficient if they are dimensioned appropriately to be able to operate several avalanche release devices 2.

[0062] Operating station 3 is located in container 38 ( Figures 5-7 ), wherein the container 38 has tabs 39 with through holes at its corners in order to fix the container 38 to the ground by means of ground anchors 40.

[0063] The mast 35 can be secured with one or more ropes 41.

[0064] A second embodiment is described in the Figures 9-14The second embodiment is shown and described below. Identical parts have the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the explanations given there apply equally to the parts of the second embodiment.

[0065] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that all hydraulic components provided for raising and lowering the lifting plate 4 of the avalanche release device 2 are not part of the operating station 3, but are integrated into the avalanche release device 2 ( Figure 10 ). All other parts and components remain part of operating station 3 ( Figure 9 ). The in Figure 10 The hydraulic circuit 57 shown, with its components, essentially corresponds to the corresponding hydraulic circuit (box 57 in Figure 8 ) of the first embodiment, which is arranged in operating station 3.

[0066] The operating station 3 has an energy storage device 24, which is configured in the same way as in the first embodiment and may include a generator 26. The operating station 3 may also include a photovoltaic system, which generates electricity from sunlight using one or more solar panels. A battery or accumulator 29 may be provided as an additional energy storage device. The generator 26 and the accumulator 29 are coupled to each other via an inverter 30.

[0067] The operating station 3 can include a heating device and a control unit that uses electrical signals to control the energy storage device 24, an electric motor 16, or the heating device. The control unit can be connected to a variety of sensors, such as a voltmeter to measure the voltage at the accumulator 29. Furthermore, the control unit can be connected to weather sensors to detect, for example, wind speed, wind direction, air temperature, and / or precipitation. The operating station 3 also includes a radio module for establishing a bidirectional data connection. The radio module can be connected to an antenna. All these components are interconnected as in the first embodiment.

[0068] An avalanche release device 2 in turn has a lifting plate 4 and a base 5 ( Figures 12-14). Through holes 7 are provided at the corners of the base 5, so that the base 5 can be fixed to a slope using ground anchors.

[0069] The base 5 and the lifting plate 4 are each connected to each other at one edge by a hinge joint 8. A cylinder / piston unit 9, which functions as a lifting device, is arranged between the base 5 and the lifting plate 4. In the present embodiment, the cylinder / piston unit 9 is a hydraulically driven cylinder / piston unit 9.

[0070] The avalanche release device 2 of the second embodiment comprises the hydraulic components provided for raising and lowering the lifting plate 4 of the avalanche release device 2. These are located in a box 46, which is arranged within the base 5 ( Figures 13 and 14 ).

[0071] The electric motor 16, which is coupled to a hydraulic pump 15 and serves to drive the hydraulic pump 15, is located in box 46. The hydraulic pump 15 is connected to a reservoir 18 for a hydraulic working fluid 19 via a first hydraulic line 47. The first hydraulic line 47 leads from the hydraulic pump 15 to a pressure tank 12 containing a gas cushion 13, via a check valve 50 and a first two-way valve 51. The first two-way valve 51 can disconnect the pressure tank 12 from the first hydraulic line 47. From the pressure tank 12, the first hydraulic line 47 continues through a second two-way poppet valve 52 to the cylinder / piston unit 9. The second two-way poppet valve 52 can switch the first hydraulic line 47 between open and closed.

[0072] The hydraulic pump 15 is connected to the reservoir 18 for the hydraulic working fluid 19 via a second hydraulic line 48, which branches off from the first hydraulic line 47 between the hydraulic pump 15 and the pressure tank 12. A third two-way poppet valve 53 is arranged in the second hydraulic line 48 between the hydraulic pump 15 and the reservoir 18. The third two-way poppet valve 53 can switch the second hydraulic line 48 between the hydraulic pump 15 and the reservoir 18 between the open and closed positions.

[0073] A third hydraulic line 49 is integrated into the second hydraulic line 48 between the hydraulic pump 15 and the reservoir 18, bypassing the third two-way poppet valve 53. A pressure relief valve 54 is arranged in the third hydraulic line 49. The pressure relief valve 54 serves to open the third hydraulic line 49 if the pressure in the first hydraulic line 47 becomes too high. This allows the hydraulic working fluid 19 to flow back into the reservoir 18.

[0074] The avalanche release device 2 comprises a control unit 55, which is connected via an electrical line 56 to the electric motor 16 and the two-way seat valves 51, 52, 53 and is designed to control them. The avalanche release device 2 is also connected to the operating station 3 via an electrical line 56. The data connection can be a modulation onto the existing electrical line 56, which is processed by the control unit 55, or a separate data cable integrated into the electrical line 56 for transmitting the data signals, or a radio connection can be provided.

[0075] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the connection to the operating station 3 is not established via two pressure lines 10, 11, but rather by means of the electrical line 56. These are particularly suitable for longer distances, and electronic lines are not as maintenance-intensive as hydraulic lines. Additionally, this makes it easier to connect several avalanche release devices 2 to one operating station 3. Figure 11 ).

[0076] A further advantage is that by integrating the hydraulic components into the avalanche release device 2, these components can be made smaller and thus housed in the box 46 in a space-saving manner. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic pump 15 has a displacement of 4 cc, the pressure tank 12 has a volume of 1.4 l, and the reservoir 18 has a volume of 10 l.

[0077] Depending on the size of the avalanche release device 2, these dimensions can vary. Preferably, a pressure tank 12 with a volume of no more than 2 l or 1.5 l is provided. The reservoir can be designed with a maximum volume of up to 20 l or up to 15 l.

[0078] The operation of the avalanche triggering system 1 described above is explained below.

[0079] Several avalanche release devices 2 (in the present embodiment there are four avalanche release devices 2) are arranged on a slope 42 such that their respective hinge joints 8 point upwards and free edges 43 of the lifting plates 4, which are arranged on the opposite side of the hinge joints 8, point downwards.

[0080] The lifting plate 4 with the free edges 43 forms a snow cutting element.

[0081] The avalanche release devices 2 are each connected to the operating station 3, which is usually located above the avalanche release device 2 in a safe place on slope 42.

[0082] The avalanche release devices 2 are generally arranged with the lifting plate 4 lowered onto the base 5. This is referred to below as the initial position. The avalanche release devices 2, positioned in this way on the slope 42, are covered with snow. When a critical amount of snow is reached, the avalanche release devices 2 are triggered by the lifting plate 4 being abruptly raised by means of the cylinder / piston units 9. This causes the lifting plate 4 to lift a portion of the snowpack, thus cutting through and breaking away the continuous snowpack in the area of ​​its edges 43.

[0083] Alternatively, the avalanche release device 2 can be positioned with the lifting plate 4 extended. The avalanche release device 2 is then covered in snow, and snow accumulates against the lifting plate 4, preventing it from sliding off. When a critical amount of snow accumulates, the cylinder / piston unit 9 is abruptly lowered, and the released mass of snow, as it slides down, pulls further snow with it, thus triggering an avalanche.

[0084] Another application is the containment of mud and debris flows. In this case, the avalanche release device 2 is also deployed with the lifting plate 4 extended. If mud or debris breaks loose on the slope, it is (partially) collected and accumulated by the lifting plate 4. Subsequently, the cylinder / piston unit 9 can be slowly lowered, allowing the accumulated material to slide off in a controlled manner. This controlled sliding is preferably carried out under conditions where there is no risk of mud or debris flows, such as during prolonged rainfall.

[0085] To lift the lifting plates 4, the avalanche release devices 2 are used according to the first embodiment ( Figures 1-8) from operating station 3 via pressure lines 10, 11, supplied with hydraulic working medium 19 such that the cylinder / piston units 9 extend and raise the lifting plates 4. Since the hydraulic working medium 19 in the pressure tank 12 is under a predetermined pressure, several avalanche release devices 2 can be actuated simultaneously.

[0086] After raising the lifting plates 4, they can be lowered again.

[0087] The pressure tank 12 is preferably dimensioned such that two or more lifting and lowering operations of the respective lifting plates 4 can be carried out without the pressure tank 12 needing to be repressurized. This ensures that multiple avalanche triggering events can occur even during a prolonged period of bad weather with continuous snowfall. Alternatively, the pressure tank 12 can be somewhat smaller, and the gas pressure tank 27 of the energy storage unit 24 can be dimensioned so that the pressure tank 12 can be repressurized multiple times after each lifting and lowering operation of the lifting plates 4 without the gas pressure tank 27 itself needing to be recharged. This also ensures multiple lifting and lowering operations without the need for an external energy supply.

[0088] If the gas pressure in the gas pressure tank 27 drops below its target pressure, then, when the sun is shining, electricity is automatically supplied to the energy storage unit 24 via the photovoltaic system to recharge the gas pressure tank 27.

[0089] The description of the second embodiment is essentially the same as that of the first embodiment. The difference is that, according to the second embodiment, the operating station 3 is connected via the electrical lines 56 to the control devices 55 of the avalanche release devices 2 and is configured to control the electric motor 16 and the two-way seat valves 51, 52, 53.

[0090] To fill the pressure tank 12 with the hydraulic working fluid 19, the electric motor 16 drives the hydraulic pump 15 and pumps the hydraulic working fluid 19 from the reservoir 18 via the first hydraulic line 47 through the check valve 50 to the pressure tank 12 containing the gas cushion 13. This pressurizes the pressure tank 12. During this process, the two-way poppet valves 52 and 53 are closed, and the first two-way poppet valve 51 is open. To raise the lifting plate 4, the second two-way poppet valve 52 is opened, causing the pressure in the pressure tank 12 to force the hydraulic working fluid 19 to flow abruptly to the cylinder / piston unit 9. Preferably, the pressure tank 12 is pre-filled and ready so that, to raise the lifting plate 4, only the signal to open the second two-way poppet valve 52 needs to be sent. However, it is also possible to fill the pressure tank 12 only shortly before it is needed by driving the electric motor 16.This results in less stress on the mechanical components.

[0091] To lower the lifting plate 4 again, the first two-way poppet valve 51 is closed and the third two-way poppet valve 53 is opened, allowing the hydraulic working fluid 19 to flow back into the reservoir 18 via the second hydraulic line 48. The second two-way poppet valve 52 remains open. The first two-way poppet valve 51 upstream of the pressure tank 12 must be closed, otherwise the pressure in the pressure tank 12 would impede the return flow of the hydraulic fluid 19. Furthermore, the pressure built up in the pressure tank 12 is to be stored for further lifting of the lifting plate 4.

[0092] Such an avalanche release by raising the lifting plates 4 can be triggered remotely via the radio module 36. Alternatively, an avalanche release can also be triggered automatically based on predetermined parameters, in particular weather data recorded by the weather sensors 34. However, automatic operation of the avalanche release system 1 is only practical if it is ensured that no persons are in the danger zone when an automatic avalanche release occurs. Therefore, such an automatic avalanche release can also depend on the time of day or other parameters.

[0093] As a snow cutting element, a rope 44 can be provided as an alternative or in addition to the lifting plates 4 ( Fig. 1 or 3The rope 44 is attached at both ends to separate avalanche release devices 2, which are preferably controlled synchronously, so that the rope is raised or lowered simultaneously with the lifting plates 4. This allows the rope to cut through the snowpack over a longer distance, making avalanche release even more reliable. Alternatively, the rope can be connected to an avalanche release device 2 at only one end, such that this end is raised when the lifting plate 4 is raised and lowered when the lifting plate 4 is lowered. The other end is preferably secured to the slope with a ground anchor. In this embodiment, it is advantageous for the rope 44 to have an elastic section 45, for example in the form of an elastic rope or a spring element, so that the rope 44 is always taut.Such an elastic section can also be useful in a rope 44 which is arranged at both ends on an avalanche release device 2 in order to compensate for an asynchronous movement of the avalanche release device 2.

[0094] Instead of a rope 44, a chain or a pole can also be provided as a snow cutting element, either alternatively or in addition to the lifting plates 4.

[0095] If one or more ropes 44 are provided, the avalanche release device 2 may, instead of a lifting plate 4, have only a lever or one or more other lifting mechanisms to raise one or both ends of the rope. In such an embodiment, the rope 44 alone is used as the snow cutting element. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0096] The avalanche triggering system described above is a stationary, hydraulically or pneumatically controlled device that operates independently of human intervention. It can be installed on avalanche-prone slopes of any incline and requires virtually no maintenance during the winter season.

[0097] The pressure tank 12 can also be designed so that it can be completely replaced or subsequently refilled. In such an embodiment, neither energy storage devices 24, 29 nor a hydraulic pump are required in the operating station 24. The replacement or refilling of the pressure tank 12 can be carried out using a helicopter (automatic pressure refueling of the operating medium). In particular, the pressure tank can be filled directly from the helicopter via a hose connection while hovering, without any additional personnel, or the tanks can be exchanged.

[0098] If the avalanche triggering system is designed as a pneumatic system with a gas as the pneumatic working medium, then the pressure tank can be represented by one or more conventional gas cylinders.

[0099] The cylinder / piston unit of the lifting device can be extended by approximately 100-150 mm in a flash, triggering a "tapping" action from below against the snowpack. Triggering from below can be guaranteed regardless of snow depth. With other solutions that operate from above using explosives or gas mixtures, there is a risk of snow compaction, making avalanche triggering impossible or even allowing an avalanche to be triggered spontaneously by highly compacted snow. In contrast, the device according to the invention acts from below and can create a release edge regardless of snow density.

[0100] On wider avalanche slopes, one or more avalanche release devices can be activated simultaneously, or several systems in different contour lines can be switched on at the same time or at different times with programmed patterns.

[0101] The device according to the invention enables quiet and almost unlimited avalanche triggering with low operating costs, without posing a risk of injury in the danger zone from detonating agents or incurring intensive maintenance costs. FURTHER TECHNICAL DATA AND VARIATIONS

[0102] The electrical supply can be provided by fuel cells, batteries, or alternatively photovoltaic systems and wind generators, with combinations of several of these sources being conceivable.

[0103] Remote control can be done electrically or via a mobile app, resulting in an additionally convenient and inexpensive control method.

[0104] The device according to the invention is designed for a temperature range down to approximately -40°C.

[0105] The batteries can be electronically monitored (state of charge). Fluid levels and temperature can also be monitored.

[0106] The hydraulic or pneumatic lines are equipped with appropriate valves. Heating panels in the supply box, controlled by two separate circuits, ensure a minimum temperature of +5°C below which the system can be shut down (maintaining a constant temperature for the electrical and hydraulic components). A weighing platform or ultrasonic sensor can be installed above this temperature to determine the gas level.

[0107] To increase the reliability of the device according to the invention, a snow depth measurement can be carried out before and after the triggering of the avalanche, as well as an automatic system check of the operational readiness.

[0108] The lifting plate can be a heated lifting plate to melt and allow snow that accumulates on it to drain away. This can be useful when such a large amount of snow has accumulated on the lifting plate that its weight prevents it from being lifted as intended. For example, several heating wires can be integrated into the surface of the lifting plate, running both longitudinally and transversely. Since an electrical power supply for the avalanche release device is already provided according to the second embodiment, this can be easily implemented in that case. ASSEMBLY

[0109] The silent avalanche release device is installed in open terrain using anchor bolts driven into rock or other solid ground. The positions of the ground anchors can be predetermined using a pre-defined, foldable, and reusable drilling template, after which the anchors are drilled and set into the rock. Installation requires only a single transport operation, and a concrete foundation is not necessary.

[0110] The transmission mast is secured by tension cables, and suitable safety modules can be installed. These modules can, for example, detect when the system is in standby mode, trigger an alarm upon contact, or implement other anti-theft measures, such as an accelerometer, an access control system with an alarm, or a lightning protection module. A separate, interchangeable power supply module for helicopter transfers can also be provided. List of references

[0111] 1 Avalanche release system 2 Avalanche release device 3 Operating station 4 Lifting plate 5 Base 6 Slot 7 Through hole 8 Hinge joint 9 Cylinder / piston unit 10 First pressure line 11 Second pressure line 12 Pressure tank 13 Gas cushion 14 Third pressure line 15 Hydraulic pump 16 Electric motor 17 Fourth pressure line 18 Reservoir 19 Hydraulic working fluid 20 Pressure gauge 21 Branch line 22 Hydraulic switching device 23 Fifth pressure line 24 Energy storage 25 Gas engine 26 Generator 27 Gas pressure tank 28 Solar panel 29 Battery 30 Inverter 31 Heating unit 32 Control unit 33 Sensor 34 Weather sensor 35 Mast 36 Radio module 37 Antenna 38 Container 39 Tab 40 Ground anchor 41 Rope 42 Slope 43 Free edge 44 Rope 45 Elastic section 46 Box 47 First hydraulic line 48 Second hydraulic line 49 Third hydraulic line 50 Check valve 51 First two-way seat valve 52 Second two-way seat valve 53 Third two-way seat valve 54 Pressure relief valve 55 Control device 56 Electrical line 57 Hydraulic circuit

Claims

1. An avalanche triggering system (1) comprising - one or more avalanche triggering devices (2) having a lifting device for vertically moving a snow cutting element in order to cut through a snow cover over a predetermined length, and a controller (32) for actuating the lifting device to raise or lower the snow cutting element, wherein the lifting device comprises a hydraulically or pneumatically actuatable cylinder / piston unit (9), and - an operating station (3) which supplies the avalanche triggering devices (2) with a pressurized working medium (19), characterized in that the operating station (3) comprises a pressure tank (12) for storing the working medium (19) under pressure, and wherein the working medium is supplied to the cylinder / piston unit (9) in the event of triggering to abruptly raise the snow cutting element.

2. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the working medium is a hydraulic working medium (19) and the pressure tank (12) comprises a gas cushion (13).

3. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the operating station (3) comprises a hydraulic pump (15) for pressurizing the pressure tank (12).

4. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the operating station (3) comprises an energy storage device (24) including a gas engine (25), a generator (26), and a gas pressure tank (27), which are arranged and designed such that the gas engine can be driven by the pressurized gas from the gas pressure tank (27) in order to drive the generator (26) for generating electricity, and that the generator (26) can be operated as an electric motor in order to drive the gas engine (25) as a pump to build up pressure in the gas pressure tank.

5. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the operating station (3) comprises a radio module (36) for preferably bidirectional communication.

6. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the operating station (3) comprises a controller (32) which is designed such that the plurality of avalanche triggering devices (2) are triggered according to a defined triggering pattern, i.e. simultaneously or in a time-shifted manner.

7. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the snow cutting element of the avalanche triggering device (2) is a lifting plate (4) which is pivotably mounted so that an edge (43) thereof can be raised and lowered again from an initial position to an end position.

8. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the lifting plate (4) is attached to a base (5) by means of a hinge joint (8), the hinge joint (8) being preferably directed uphill in the assembled state.

9. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the snow cutting element comprises a rope (44) or a chain or a rod.

10. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the rope (44) or chain has one end attached to the lifting device and the other end attached to a further lifting device or a ground hook.

11. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that an elastic portion (45) is arranged in series with the rope (44) or chain in order to keep the rope or chain under a predetermined preload.

12. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that several ropes (44) or chains are provided, which can be arranged or are mounted under spring preload and which are located in an initial position near the ground for triggering a breakaway edge to the side of the lifting device.

13. The avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the rope (44) is a steel rope.

14. A method of mounting one or more avalanche triggering devices (2), of an avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 13, on a slope (42), wherein a template is used to determine the position of holes to be drilled into the slope so that the avalanche triggering device (2) is fixed to the slope (42) by inserting a ground anchor through each hole (7) at the base (5) and fixing it in the borehole.

15. A method for remote-controlled, silent avalanche triggering by means of an avalanche triggering system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 13, comprising the following steps: a) transmitting a triggering signal to the radio module (36); b) suddenly raising the snow cutting element.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized by the following further step: c) automatically resetting the snow cutting element.